ACEs are common. The original study found almost two thirds of participants experienced 1 or more ACE and more than 1 in 5 experienced 3 or more ACEs.

While we do not have a Scottish ACE survey, it has been proposed that we could assume similar prevalence of ACEs in the Scottish population as has been found in

Wales - almost 50% experienced 1 ACE and 14% experienced 4 or more

England – almost 50% experienced 1 ACE and over 8% 4 or more.

Research has found that a relationship with one trusted adult during childhood can mitigate the impacts of ACEs on mental and physical wellbeing.

The term was originally developed in the US for the Adverse Childhood Experiences survey which found that as the number of ACEs increased in the population studied, so did the risk of experiencing a range of health conditions in adulthood. There have been numerous other studies which have found similar findings including in Wales and England.

ACEs and health inequalities

Preventing ACEs should be seen within the wider context of tackling societal inequalities. While ACEs are found across the population, there is more risk of experiencing ACEs in areas of higher deprivation.

ACEs have been found to have lifelong impacts on health and behaviour and they are relevant to all sectors and involve all of us in society. We all have a part to play in preventing adversity and raising awareness of ACEs. Resilient communities have an important role in action on ACEs.

An ACE survey with adults in Wales found that compared to people with no ACEs, those with 4 or more ACEs are more likely to

When children are exposed to adverse and stressful experiences, it can have a long-lasting impact on their ability to think, interact with others and on their learning.

ACEs should not be seen as someone’s destiny. There is much that can be done to offer hope and build resilience in children, young people and adults who have experienced adversity in early life.

National action

The Scottish Public Health Network produced a report 'Polishing the Diamonds – Addressing Adverse Childhood Experiences' in 2016 which summarised the research and set out a number of areas for action in Scotland. You can read more about ACEs in the report.

We have produced this short animation to contribute to raising awareness about the impact of childhood adversity. We hope it can stimulate discussion about what action can be taken to both prevent and respond to early adversity.

Please share and use the clip and let us know what you think

You can find further information to support dealing with trauma and traumatic events on the NHS Inform website (external website).

Contact us

You can contact the Childhood Adversity team for more information about our work.